4

Summary

• Release Year: 1998
• Genres: Role-playing game (RPG), Strategy
• Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows)
• Developers: Nival Interactive
• Publishers: Buka Entertainment, Monolith Productions

Rage of Mages (1998): A Classic RTS-RPG Hybrid

Released in 1998, Rage of Mages is a unique blend of role-playing and real-time strategy (RTS) gameplay. Developed by Nival Interactive, the game was first released in Russia under the name Allods: The Seal of Mystery.

Rage of Mages is set in a fantasy world where the player takes on the role of a warrior or a mage on a quest to save the world from an evil sorcerer. The game features a mix of RTS and RPG elements, with players controlling a party of characters on a map, while also managing their resources and developing their characters’ skills.

One of the most unique aspects of Rage of Mages is its RTS-style gameplay. Players control their party of characters on a map, and must use their skills and abilities to defeat enemies and complete objectives. The game features a variety of different unit types, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. Players must carefully manage their resources and use their units effectively in order to succeed.

In addition to its RTS elements, Rage of Mages also features a deep RPG system. Players can create and customize their characters, and choose from a variety of skills and abilities. As they progress through the game, their characters will level up and become more powerful.

Rage of Mages also features a branching storyline, with multiple endings depending on the player’s choices. The game also features a variety of side quests and challenges, which can be completed for additional rewards.

Overall, Rage of Mages is a well-crafted and enjoyable game that offers a unique blend of RTS and RPG gameplay. The game’s challenging gameplay, deep RPG system, and branching storyline make it a must-play for fans of both genres.

Gameplay

Rage of Mages is a real-time strategy (RTS) game with role-playing elements. The player controls a party of up to six characters on a map, and must use their skills and abilities to defeat enemies and complete objectives.

The game features a variety of different unit types, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. Melee units are good at close-quarters combat, while ranged units can attack from a distance. Magic units can cast spells to damage enemies or heal allies.

Players must carefully manage their resources and use their units effectively in order to succeed. Resources are used to build units, research upgrades, and cast spells. Players must also be aware of their units’ strengths and weaknesses, and use them accordingly.

In addition to its RTS elements, Rage of Mages also features a deep RPG system. Players can create and customize their characters, and choose from a variety of skills and abilities. As they progress through the game, their characters will level up and become more powerful.

The game also features a branching storyline, with multiple endings depending on the player’s choices. The game also features a variety of side quests and challenges, which can be completed for additional rewards.

Setting

Rage of Mages is set in a fantasy world called Sarnaut. The world is divided into several different regions, each with its own unique geography and climate. The game’s story takes place on the continent of Agon, which is home to a variety of different races and cultures.

The game’s world is rich and detailed, with a deep history and lore. Players can explore a variety of different locations, including forests, mountains, deserts, and cities. The game’s world is also home to a variety of different creatures, both friendly and hostile.

Characters

The player can choose to play as one of two different characters: a warrior or a mage. Each character has their own unique skills and abilities.

• Warrior: Warriors are melee fighters who are skilled in close-quarters combat. They can use a variety of weapons, including swords, axes, and maces. Warriors are also able to wear heavy armor, which makes them more resistant to damage.
• Mage: Mages are spellcasters who can use a variety of spells to damage enemies or heal allies. They are also able to summon creatures to aid them in battle. Mages are not as physically strong as warriors, but they can be more powerful in the long run.

In addition to the player character, there are a number of other characters who can join the player’s party. These characters include:

• Anya: A female warrior who is skilled in swordsmanship.
• Boris: A male warrior who is skilled in axe fighting.
• Irina: A female mage who is skilled in fire magic.
• Nikolai: A male mage who is skilled in ice magic.

These characters can be recruited by completing quests or by finding them in the game world. Each character has their own unique skills and abilities, and they can be a valuable asset to the player’s party.

Story

The story of Rage of Mages begins with the player character being shipwrecked on the shores of Agon. The player character is soon caught up in a conflict between the forces of good and evil. The player must choose a side and fight to save the world from an evil sorcerer.

The game’s story is told through a series of cutscenes and dialogue sequences. The player’s choices throughout the game will affect the story’s outcome.

Graphics and Sound

Rage of Mages features 2D graphics that are colorful and detailed. The game’s world is rendered in a top-down perspective, and the player can zoom in and out to get a closer look at the action.

The game’s sound is also well-done, with a variety of music and sound effects that help to create an immersive experience. The game’s voice acting is also top-notch, with each character having their own unique voice.

Conclusion

Rage of Mages is a well-crafted and enjoyable game that offers a unique blend of RTS and RPG gameplay. The game’s challenging gameplay, deep RPG system, and branching storyline make it a must-play for fans of both genres.

Review Score

8/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots